Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to submit a grant application to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) for Transportation Alternative Program construction funding which will be used to build a section of the Big Walnut Trail, from the south edge of Gahanna to the Far East Community of Columbus, including a connector to Whitehall.
The project will build 1.5 miles of significant trail infrastructure for the Big Walnut Trail, closing a critical gap in the 24 mile regional path between Gahanna and Whitehall. Over 3,000 Columbus residents live in neighborhoods served by this new trail section. Once completed, the path will connect residents to parks, community services, major commercial centers, jobs, and affordable housing. The project will overcome significant barriers to trail connectivity for the Far East Community and the entire Central Ohio Region, including John Glenn Airport, Interstate 270, Airport Golf Course, and an active railroad. The project, combined with nine current MORPC and LinkUS funded Big Walnut Trail projects, will be completing over 13.5 miles of the trail.
This ordinance authorizes an application for grant funds only and is not a commitment to expend City funds. MORPC requires that the City agrees to obligate the funds at a later date which will satisfactorily complete the proposed project and become eligible for reimbursement under the terms and conditions of the grant. If the grant is awarded, future legislation will follow to authorize acceptance, appropriation, and expenditure of City funds
Principal Parties:
Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC)
111 Liberty Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
William Murdock, Executive Director, (614) 228-2663
Contract Compliance Number: 004591
Contract Compliance Expiration Date: March 25, 2024 (...
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